Monarch Butterfly Migration to Mexico

We recently took a day trip the Piedra Herrada Butterfly Sanctuary near Valle de Bravo, Mexico and were able to witness thousands of brightly colored monarchs fluttering around in the early morning sun. While they cheerfully flew overhead, we silently listened to the roaring sound of their flapping wings…wings that recently traveled some 3,000 miles from Canada and the United States in order to mate as well as escape the harsh winter weather.

The trip was absolutely incredible and we highly recommend visiting this sanctuary to experience the migration of the monarchs! Below, we have outlined all the information needed to get there!

♦ When: November-March. Note–the sanctuary can get very crowded on the weekends and around holidays. Plan to go during the week and earlier in the day if possible.

♦Where: Piedra Herrada Sanctuary located between Toluca and Valle de Bravo off of T.C. (Toluca-Cdad. Altamirano)-Valle de Bravo. There are plenty of food options there at the sanctuary, as well as lots of souvenir shopping available.

♦Cost: $60 pesos ($3.20 USD) per adult, $200 pesos ($10.80 USD) round trip for a horse and guide. Note–The horse ride was absolutely worth it. It was a nice 15-20 minute trail ride up to near the top and was so nice. There is still a 10 minute steep climb over rocks and dirt near the top after you “park” your horse.

♦Hours: 9AM-4PM every day

♦How to Get There: Guided tour or taxi from Valle de Bravo. Note–We took a taxi from Valle de Bravo for $600 pesos ($32.30 USD) round trip. He took us to the sanctuary (about a 45 minute ride from town), waited for us while we explored, and then brought us back into town. Note: There are no taxis at the sanctuary.

♦Level of Difficulty: Medium with a 45-60 minute steep walk (if you choose the no horse route) up a paved pathway with handrail. Near the top, there is an additional 10 minute climb on unpaved rocks/dirt with no handrail.

Post navigation

About Us

Hi there! If you are interested in squeezing the most out of life, traveling, exploring, learning about new cultures, and staying in constant motion, you are in the right place!
Join us on our adventure to design a life full of joy, happiness, and excitement!